New Jersey is expected to experience an increase in population of about 750,000 people over the next 20 years. Proper planning is needed to address issues related to this surge.

Where will these people work? Who will employ them? And where will they live? Many will be what United Way refers to as an “ALICE” - Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. Who are these Alices? They are our neighbors- firefighters, teachers, town employees, supermarket cashiers and some senior citizens living on a fixed income that may only be social security.

For many, having a job doesn’t mean that they can afford to support themselves or their families. There are many industrious individuals who are employed but are struggling to make ends meet.

Unfortunately, the Senate Economic Growth Committee is holding hearings Monday on legislation to abolish the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) in an attempt to simplify the process to comply with New Jersey Supreme Court mandates that require municipalities to maintain a fair share of low- and moderate-income housing.

I agree that the process could be simplified, but affordable housing mandates must continue. And towns must be forced to honor their affordable housing obligations in a real way, not just by designating certain lots for affordable housing, which they may have no intention developing, but by actually working with builders to provide the homes.

The state legislature should mandate Transit-Oriented Developments (TOD) in designated growth areas having access to nearby mass transit or major roadways that would include a percentage of units dedicated to low and moderate income residents. These TODs should be required to adhere to the New Jersey Energy Star program, or similar, to encourage green construction practices that reduce energy consumption and pollution.

Currently, there is an $8 billion improvement underway on railways that connect New Jersey to Manhattan. Towns receiving the benefit of a shorter commute to NYC should be required to rezone for TODs.

As a builder in central New Jersey, I believe it is crucial for the state to have a plan that promotes smart growth. Attention to issues of land use, public transportation, affordable housing and more would help jumpstart our stagnant economy by re-igniting development and increase employment opportunities.

Since real estate development relies upon local manpower, suppliers and materials, affordable housing is a direct link to the growth and economic well-being of the state. These are not jobs that can be shipped overseas or out-sourced. Building is one of the best examples of an industry that is truly “Made in America.” A typical medium sized housing project could employ more than 200 workers for up to a year.

As our state budget deficit is approaching $10 billion, we must grow our economy by promoting job growth and increase our tax base through new “green” housing. Developing senior housing and transit villages with inclusive affordable housing components are important steps toward a fiscally and morally healthy New Jersey.